PrepTest 129, Section 2, Question 21
Editorial: It is a travesty of justice, social(92 more words not shown)
The statement that rocket technology(18 more words not shown)
- AIt is cited(8 more words not shown)
- BAccording to the(11 more words not shown)
- CIt is the(2 more words not shown)
- DIt is claimed(16 more words not shown)
- EIt is used(12 more words not shown)
Reading the argument
If we can launch a rocket, why can't we solve a longstanding social problem? The comparison is striking, but maybe the two tasks present very different difficulties. Success at one does not automatically show that failure at the other reflects a lack of concern.
We might also wonder whether the two projects have to compete: perhaps a government could pursue both, or scientific work could help with social problems. The editorial takes a particular route, however. It challenges the assumption that space launches are harder than solving social problems.
The author says rocket technology is simpler than the human psyche, then adds that understanding the psyche is required to solve great social problems. I can see how those claims are meant to rebut the criticism: technical success does not show that we have mastered the harder human problem. We could question whether understanding the psyche is always required, but this question asks what the statement does, not whether it is true.
What we’re looking for
Find the author's conclusion first: the criticism is misplaced. The comparison between technology and the psyche is a reason for that conclusion. It helps attack the reasoning behind the critics' viewpoint.
Working the answers
- A
The author uses the comparison to support the conclusion, not as a possible objection to it. The conclusion rejects the criticism; the simpler-technology claim helps explain that rejection.
- B
According to the editorial, the critics are misled by the assumption that space launches involve greater difficulties than solving social problems. The statement we are asked about points the other way. It is the author's corrective to that assumption, not the fact that supposedly led the critics astray.
- C
The conclusion is that the social criticism is misplaced. Rocket technology's relative simplicity is offered as a reason to believe that assessment. C mistakes support for the point being supported.
- D
The author accepts the statement that rocket technology is simpler than the psyche. The false assumption attributed to the opposing reasoning is the different comparison that makes space launches harder than resolving social problems. Keep track of which side endorses which statement: the quoted claim belongs to the author's response.
- ECorrect
The statement helps undermine the reasoning behind the critics' viewpoint. If the human understanding required to solve social problems is harder to achieve than rocket technology, launching rockets while social problems persist does not by itself demonstrate misplaced priorities. Supporting the author's conclusion and undermining the opposing reasoning are two descriptions of the same role here.
More Role/Main Point questions
Learn the LSAT our way
Our platform drills Role/Main Point questions at your level and adjusts as you improve.